The Madison County Schools Board of Education held a special session on September 5, 2025, focusing on travel expenses and per diem rates for staff attending conferences and events. The meeting highlighted the need to reassess current reimbursement rates in light of rising costs in various cities where staff frequently travel.

During the discussion, it was noted that the federal government sets mileage rates, but per diem rates vary by location. For instance, the per diem rates are $74 in Huntsville, $80 in Birmingham, and $68 in Montgomery, while the current reimbursement rate for Madison County Schools staff stands at only $45 per day. This discrepancy means that staff often incur out-of-pocket expenses when attending events, as the cost of food and dining has significantly increased.

Board members expressed concern about the challenges staff face in keeping track of receipts for reimbursement. Many staff members struggle to maintain accurate records, especially when traveling for extended periods, leading to potential financial losses. A suggestion was made to explore the possibility of allowing staff to scan and email receipts to streamline the reimbursement process.

The board plans to further investigate these issues and will bring additional information to future meetings. The discussion underscores the importance of ensuring that staff are adequately supported during travel, reflecting the board's commitment to addressing the financial challenges faced by educators and staff in Madison County.